Musée d'art et de traditions populaires de Montendre
Municipal museum of Saintonge ethnography in the square tower of Montendre castle: headdresses, costumes, furniture and objects from the early 20th century.
No sound? Check your device’s silent switch.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Musée d’art et de traditions populaires is a municipal museum housed in the square tower of Montendre castle, at the entrance to the site. The commune acquired the castle between 1950 and 1963; the tower was later fitted out to house the museum.
Over three levels it presents collections from donations and loans: headdresses, costumes, Saintonge furniture and everyday objects from the early 20th century (lamps, irons, cauldrons, tools), as well as clothing and children’s games. Reconstructed scenes of everyday life evoke life in earlier times. A documentary collection includes old photographs of Montendre, flags and banners.
The castle itself, whose origins go back to the Gallo-Roman era, retains elements from several periods: curtain walls, a round tower, the square tower, a guardroom and underground vaults. Today the site is a walk, with a panorama from the square tower and the ramparts.
Highlights
- Headdresses, costumes and Saintonge furniture
- Everyday objects from the early 20th century
- Reconstructed scenes of everyday life over three levels
- Collection of old photographs of Montendre
- Panorama from the square tower and the ramparts
Permanent exhibition
- Collections d'art et de traditions populaires de la Saintonge – Headdresses, costumes, furniture and everyday objects from the early 20th century, with reconstructed scenes of daily life.
- Operated by
- Commune de Montendre
Admission & discounts
| Children & teens | freefree up to age 9 · Castle visit free for children under 10. |
|---|---|
| Groups (10+ people) | €1.50 per personCastle visit for groups of at least 10 people. |
Castle visit: €3 per person, according to the town’s announcement.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
The museum is located in the square tower at the entrance to Montendre castle (2 place du Temple, 17130 Montendre).
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Guided tours organised by the tourist office; reservation at 05 46 49 46 45 for a day other than Thursday. |
